Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese
The best mac and cheese recipe? This creamy homemade mac and cheese is your ticket to cheesy, comforting bliss, ready in just 45 minutes..jpg "Creamy Home-made Mac and Cheese Recipe")
If it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this favorite will steal the show with a velvety cheese sauce and an optional golden breadcrumb topping, it’s no wonder this dish tops for easy trending recipes. Let's satisfy those cravings with this mac & cheese recipe.
Why This Mac and Cheese Is a Game-Changer
1. Quick: From stove to table in under an hour.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids, adults, and picky eaters alike.
3. Versatile: Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or gatherings.
4. Irresistible: Creamy, cheesy, with a crunchy top option that’s pure comfort.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids, adults, and picky eaters alike.
3. Versatile: Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or gatherings.
4. Irresistible: Creamy, cheesy, with a crunchy top option that’s pure comfort.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
16 oz elbow macaroni
3.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (reserve 0.5 cup for topping)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp mustard powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
3.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (reserve 0.5 cup for topping)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp mustard powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
Instructions
i. Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
ii. Make Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add 3 cups cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
iii. Combine
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every noodle evenly.
iv. Bake (Optional)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle with the reserved 0.5 cup cheddar and panko breadcrumbs for a crispy top. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
v. Serve
- Let it cool for 5 minutes to set, then serve hot and watch it disappear
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Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese
1. Shred your own cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce—pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make it grainy.2. Mix in gouda, gruyère, or parmesan for a gourmet twist that elevates the flavor.
3. Want a trendy spin on Mac and Cheese? Add crispy bacon bits, a drizzle of truffle oil, or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
4. Keep the pasta al dente; overcooked noodles get mushy in the sauce.
5. Check out the perfect boiled egg recipe below for more inspiration.
Make It Your 'Home-STU'
i. Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted cauliflower for a nutritious kick.
ii. Protein Power: Mix in diced ham, pulled pork, or lobster for a decadent upgrade.
iii. Spicy Vibes: Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or top with crushed chili flakes for a fiery twist.
ii. Protein Power: Mix in diced ham, pulled pork, or lobster for a decadent upgrade.
iii. Spicy Vibes: Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or top with crushed chili flakes for a fiery twist.
Fat (Mac and Cheese): 28g
Carbs (Mac and Cheese): 45g
Why Is Mac and Cheese Trending.
This homemade mac and cheese is dominating taste buds for its rich, cheesy flavor and foolproof prep. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings people together, whether you’re hosting a game night or craving a nostalgic treat. Posts online rave about its versatility—bake it for a crowd or keep it stovetop for a quick meal. Plus, who can resist that golden, bubbly top?Storage and Reheating
1. Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.2. Freeze: Assemble unbaked mac and cheese in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
3. Reheat: Warm in the microwave with a splash of milk, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Pairing Ideas
Serve this mac and cheese with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. For drinks, try a chilled white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a craft beer to complement the cheesy richness.Share the Love
Made this creamy mac and cheese? Snap a pic and share your creation in the comments below! Let us know your favorite twists or toppings. Craving more comfort food? Check out our buttery mashed potatoes recipe or cheesy garlic bread for your next meal.
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